Car rental abroad: pitfalls, hidden charges, and how to avoid them

Renting a car on vacation is undeniably convenient. You are not tied to taxis, buses, or timetables — go where you want, when you want. But the reality is often messier. Along with the keys, you can pick up a stack of unexpected headaches. We pulled together real facts and travelers’ stories to point out what to watch for so your rental doesn’t turn into a problem.

Insurance: included, but not complete

Basic insurance is almost always built into the price — it is required by law. That doesn’t mean every risk is covered. You will likely be offered extended coverage for an extra fee. The catch is that even this add-on doesn’t always cover everything: if the car gets scratched, you may still end up paying a substantial amount.

Some companies on the spot insist you buy their own policy even if you arranged another one in advance; travelers say they were refused a car without that extra payment.

Deductible and deposit: a double hit to your card

Another potential surprise is the deductible and the deposit. The deductible is the amount you’ll be charged if the car is damaged — even if you weren’t at fault. It can be hefty, from 500 to 2,000 euros.

On top of that, the company will block a deposit on your card — another few hundred or even thousands of euros. The money isn’t debited but becomes unavailable. Getting it back isn’t always instant; sometimes it takes up to a month.

You returned the car — then the bill arrived

Problems often start after you hand the car back. You may be told everything is fine, and then an unexpected message lands: funds have been charged for an alleged new scratch or damage.

To protect yourself, travelers recommend photographing the car from every angle at pickup and drop-off. Daylight shots are best so everything is clear. This helps prove you didn’t cause the damage.

Fines and hidden add-ons

Beyond insurance and the deposit, there can be more surprises: a fee for returning the car late — even by just 10–15 minutes; a refueling charge if the tank isn’t full — often above pump prices; a cleaning fee for a dirty interior — beach sand or crumbs can be costly; sometimes mileage is capped — and every extra kilometer carries a charge.

These little things can easily double the rental cost, especially if you weren’t prepared.

How to avoid missteps: simple tips

To keep your trip from turning into a letdown, do the following in advance:

— Get zero-deductible coverage from a third-party provider; it’s usually cheaper than buying it at the counter.

— Read the contract before signing, especially the small print.

— Always take photos of the car before and after the rental.

— Pay with a credit card; if there’s a dispute, it’s easier to get your money back through the bank.

Renting is convenient — if you stay alert

Hiring a car abroad is a great idea when you want to roam and see more. But freedom comes with responsibility. No one wants to return from a holiday with bills and a bad taste.

The key is to pay attention. Take a moment to read the terms, snap a few photos, and don’t hesitate to clarify the details. That’s how your break stays easy — and free of unwelcome surprises.